Etihad, Swissport expand ground and cargo support

Etihad Airways has expanded its partnership with Swissport from 30 to 40 airports under a new memorandum of understanding signed at Arabian Travel Market. The agreement covers ground handling and cargo services across Africa, Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, with airport hospitality also in scope.

The wider network gives Etihad a single ground services partner across more locations as its network expands. The agreement also provides a framework to add airports and services, supporting consistent ground operations and cargo handling across different markets.

The two companies will also explore the use of automation, artificial intelligence and data-driven systems to improve airport operations. Swissport’s work on autonomous ground vehicles forms part of these technology efforts, supporting safer and more efficient handling processes.

Captain Majed Al Marzouqi, Chief Operations and Guest Officer, Etihad Airways, said: “Etihad is expanding at pace, and each new destination we add depends on the right standard of service being in place on the ground before the first flight arrives. Working with one partner across 40 airports gives our guests the same experience whether they are departing from Europe, Asia or North America, and gives our operation the consistency it needs to match that expansion. By combining Swissport’s global expertise with Etihad’s ambitious plans, we can enhance efficiency, service quality and the guest experience across our operations, while creating a strong platform for what comes next.”

The partnership covers locations across key global markets and provides scope to extend services through Swissport’s Aspire airport hospitality brand, which operates lounges worldwide.